A recent vote by the executive board of the Northwest Oregon Labor Council (NOLC) to admit the Portland Police Association (PPA) has stirred controversy within the labor community. Although the board initially approved the PPA’s entry, backlash—especially from the Portland chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America—has led NOLC to bring the decision to a full vote among its 104 affiliate unions. Critics argue the police union’s inclusion undermines labor values tied to racial and social justice, while supporters, including NOLC leadership, say union solidarity is essential amid national threats to labor rights. The final decision will be made later this month.
See "Portland Police Union Tries to Join the Northwest Oregon Labor Council, Stirring a Quarrel", Sophie Peel, Willamette Week, April 8, 2025